Kahikatea

Kahikatea (Dacrycarpus dacrydioides), also known as the white pine, is a coniferous tree native to New Zealand. It is the tallest native tree in New Zealand, reaching heights of up to 66.5 meters. The Kahikatea is a member of the Podocarpaceae family and is known for its straight trunk and light-colored bark.

Taxonomy

The Kahikatea was first described by botanist Allan Cunningham in 1826. It is a member of the genus Dacrycarpus, which includes about 21 species of coniferous trees found in the southern hemisphere. The species name dacrydioides refers to its resemblance to the genus Dacrydium.

Description

The Kahikatea has a straight trunk and a light-colored bark. The leaves are small and scale-like, arranged spirally on the branches. The tree produces small, red or purple cones, which contain numerous small seeds. The seeds are dispersed by birds, which eat the fleshy cone scales.

Distribution and habitat

The Kahikatea is found throughout New Zealand, from sea level to elevations of up to 600 meters. It prefers wet, swampy areas and is often found in floodplain forests. The tree is tolerant of a wide range of soil types, but requires good drainage.

Uses

The wood of the Kahikatea is light and straight-grained, making it ideal for construction. It has been used for building houses, boats, and furniture. The tree's bark and leaves have also been used in traditional Maori medicine.

Conservation

While the Kahikatea is not currently considered endangered, its population has declined due to habitat loss and logging. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting existing stands of trees and restoring degraded habitats.

See also

• List of trees native to New Zealand
• New Zealand forest ecology